Half of all health and social care professionals (HSCPs) identified inadequate staffing levels as their top concern at work in a recent survey. The interim results of the research, conducted by Fórsa, found that poor opportunities for career progression was the second biggest concern, while increased caseloads and workloads came in third.

Other issues highlighted in the study – the first of its kind – included lack of administrative support, poor communications, worries about proposed community health structures, work-related stress and personal safety. A number of HSCPs said personal threats and workplace assaults were on the increase.

The survey is seeking the views of occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social care workers, social workers and speech and language therapists. Each of the professions highlighted lack of staffing and resources as their number one concern.

The interim results are broken down by profession in a summary now available. The average length of service of survey participants is 13.5 years at this stage.

There’s still time to participate as the surveying will continue until next March. The data obtained from this initiative will be used to inform Fórsa’s work with the professions. To view the survey click here.

Electronic and physical copies of this survey will be rolled out in January.

If you wish to participate in the survey please contact Orla Fawl or Katie Morgan. All information collected is confidential and the survey data is stored in accordance with GDPR guidelines.